Musical Thesis: Robert Plant & Alison Krauss “Raising Sand”

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At the center of every album is a musical thesis. This thesis can be the driving force behind the album, a theme that interweaves songs together, or a feeling you are left with after the very last song plays. With some albums, the thesis is easy to find. On others, it is hidden and requires you to be more than a passive listener. These reviews are not about rating an album. Instead, it is about uncovering a musical thesis.

I wish the world of popular music saw more projects like “Raising Sand” by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss. I love the idea of artists from two different genres coming together to make something unique. For its part, this album is a soulful and introspective folk-oriented collection of songs that sustains a sense of sadness throughout. But this album isn’t depressing. Mixing blues, country, and folk music, we get a sense of the struggle without being overwhelmed. In the end, most of the songs here will get your foot stomping. If you are anything like me, they will also leave you begging for more projects born out of mutual respect.

Be good to each other,

Nathan